How memory, trauma and advocacy shape our identities | Zarlasht Sarmast | TEDxBard College
This talk explores the resilience of individuals affected by war, displacement, and trauma, highlighting the impact of PTSD on memory and daily life in Afghanistan. Through personal experiences and advocacy, Zar sheds light on the power of storytelling, education, and civic engagement in reclaiming agency and creating meaningful change. Zarlasht Sarmast completed her undergraduate degree at the American University of Central Asia – Department of International and Comparative Politics in 2020. While studying at AUCA, Zar was working for the “The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH” (GIZ) in Bishkek as a communications specialist. Before starting her academic and professional journeys in Bishkek, Zar served as the spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross in Afghanistan. She has previously worked with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and was part of many different peacebuilding and Humanitarian projects. She finished her first Master’s degree at the Organization for Security and Co-Operation in Europe (OSCE Academy), department of International Relations and Security. She recently finished her second Master’s degree again at AUCA - department of Applied Psychology. Her research on “Level of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and its impact on Prospective Memory among Afghan Students” is published on the OSUN-Vasa Website. Zar played an important role in the evacuation of over 370 Afghan students of AUCA and AUAF from Kabul to Bishkek which inspired her to author her first photo story book “A journey from Kabul to Bishkek” followed by a second story book titled “Our Journey to Bard”. She has spoken in many international meetings including the World Bank Spring Meetings on the importance of education for Afghan women. Currently Zar is based in New York City and works as the Business Manager for Bard NYC program. She also serves as the Civic Engagement Network Coordinator at the Open Society University Network and Bard Center for Civic Engagement. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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